Many spy films intrigue the audience through big name stars, an overblown special effects budget and confusing gadgets; Breach, however, entices viewers in an unconventional way.

Breach relies on secrecy and espionage instead of car chases and guns. The story, based on real events, begins when FBI employee Erik O?Niell (Ryan Phillippe) is assigned to watch and if necessary catch senior agent Robert Hanssen (Chris Cooper) due to suspicious behavior.

Erik, ironically, grows to trust and admire Hanssen. He confronts his bosses and learns that he was misled. The truth is revealed, that Hanssen is a traitor, one of the most damaging spies the United States has ever faced.

From then on, O?Neill and Hanssen deal with both personal conflicts and problems with each other. O?Neill works through religious issues and marital problems while trying to catch the traitor and Hanssen. Meanwhile tries to decide if O?Neill can be trusted.

The acting in each respective role and the ironic chemistry between the characters keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. Phillippe does an excellent job at portraying a sense of anxious intelligence and a convincing quick-wittedness.

Cooper displays Hanssen?s two sides, a devout Catholic family man and a rough intimidating fa